2020 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid Review

Along with the regular Escape, the 2020 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid is all-new. You can drive the Plug-In Hybrid on pure electricity for about 30 miles before it switches over to regular gasoline hybrid operation. And unlike the Escape Hybrid, you can recharge the Plug-In Hybrid either at home or at one of the growing EV networks nationwide. Essentially, the more frequently you can plug in and recharge, the less gas you'll use.

Aside from the powertrain, the Escape Plug-In Hybrid falls in line with the standard model. It's a big improvement over the previous-generation Escape thanks to more interior room, better tech and a handsome new design. Along with the 2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime, the Escape looks to be an intriguing pick for a highly fuel-efficient small SUV.

Which Escape Plug-In Hybrid does Edmunds recommend?

There's only one powertrain available for the Escape Plug-In Hybrid, so we recommend going for the base SE trim level. It might be the bottom of the rung, but it comes with some appealing standard features such as automatic climate control, a power-adjustable driver's seat and an 8-inch touchscreen display.

Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid models

The 2020 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid is available in three trim levels: SE, SEL and Titanium. Each one comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired to a hybrid system with a rechargeable battery. Total system output is 221 horsepower. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive, something you can get on the regular Escape and Escape Hybrid, isn't available.

SE The base SE model comes fairly well equipped and includes standard features such as:

Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid vs. the competition

Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid vs. Toyota RAV4 Hybrid

The Toyota RAV4 is one of our favorite crossover SUVs and is available with a hybrid powertrain. A plug-in hybrid variant is due out soon and, unlike the Escape, is available with all-wheel drive. We're not the biggest fans of the RAV4's tech and some find the seats uncomfortable, but the space and fuel efficiency make it worth a look.

Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid vs. Honda CR-V Hybrid

The Honda CR-V sits alongside the Toyota RAV4 as one of our favorite crossovers. A refresh for 2020 brings with it a new hybrid powertrain, though it's not a plug-in hybrid like the Ford. We love the CR-V's interior packaging and comfortable ride. The infotainment can be frustrating to use at times, but overall the CR-V remains a favorite. You can also read more about the CR-V in our long-term CR-V test.

Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid vs. Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is the only other plug-in hybrid in this class. We like the Outlander PHEV's long list of standard features that includes all-wheel drive, but its subpar build quality and disappointing driving experience will likely leave you wanting for more.

FAQ

Is the Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid a good car?

The Edmunds experts tested the 2020 Escape Plug-In Hybrid both on the road and at the track. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the Escape Plug-In Hybrid has 30.7 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid. Learn more

What's new in the 2020 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid?

According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2020 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid:

The 2020 Escape has been fully redesigned

New Escape Plug-In Hybrid offers an estimated 30 miles of electric range

To determine whether the Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the Escape Plug-In Hybrid. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the Escape Plug-In Hybrid's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more

Is the 2020 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid a good car?

There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2020 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid is a good car. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2020 Escape Plug-In Hybrid is a good car for you. Check back soon for the official Edmunds Rating from our expert testing team Learn more

What do people think of the 2020 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid?

Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for
the 2020 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid and all its trim types.
Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what
other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database.
Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior,
exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a
comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2020 Escape Plug-In Hybrid.

Our Review Process

This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.

We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.

What's a good price for a New 2020 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid?

Which 2020 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrids are available in my area?

Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings
of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2020 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid for
sale near. Simply research the
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you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find
out what other owners paid for the 2020 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid.

Should I lease or buy a 2020 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you
that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make
higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand,
can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a
new car every three years or so.